Welcome to the Book Blogger Hop! Hosted by Ramblings of a Coffee Addicted Writer this week the prompt is:
“Do you believe the education system should change its approach to teaching reading and literature to students?“ – submitted by Billy @ Coffee Addicted Writer
I have worked in UK primary and secondary schools since 2021. I’ve been a class teacher, teaching assistant, and now a school librarian leading phonics interventions. I don’t have children of my own but have many nieces and nephews, so this topic is especially interesting to me.
As a primary teacher, I read to my class daily. We voted on books to read together, focused on a term-long text for English lessons, and created related literacy work. Each classroom had a book corner to promote Reading for Pleasure. I listened to every child read weekly, recording it in their diaries for parents.
However, I’ve noticed that my 5-year-old niece and nephew sometimes go weeks without having their books changed, and their teachers don’t always update their diaries. In a busy classroom, teachers often lack time for these small tasks, but we should show parents what children read so it can continue at home. Teachers too often overlook listening to a child read because of packed schedules.
In secondary schools, I’m shocked by how many children arrive from primary unable to read at their expected level. My September timetable is full of students still needing phonics interventions. This makes me question whether primary schools are struggling, if social media affects attention spans, or if children simply aren’t reading at home.
Many students tell me, “I can’t read” or “I don’t like reading.” When I ask why, answers are often “It’s boring” or “The books are too long.” With picture books, comics, graphic novels, and audiobooks available, I wonder if they’ve ever tried them. I explain the difference between “I can’t read” and “I don’t want to read.”
Working in a library has shown me that schools can do more to foster a Reading for Pleasure culture. Our school hosts book fairs. At my previous secondary school, we organised author visits, lunchtime book clubs, and reading competitions. Teachers should actively promote reading, not just teach it.
Budgeting is another challenge. Many schools want to improve reading programs but lack the funds. Solutions may require cheaper or free strategies. Schools should also involve parents more. Some children don’t read at home because parents can’t read or lack books. Workshops or giving every child a book could help, though budgets limit options.
Overall, schools are doing their best with current resources. However, reading programs should be regularly reviewed and updated with fresh ideas to keep up with a changing world.
“Reading is the gateway skill that makes all other learning possible.” – Barak Obama
“Reading is the most important way to prepare for life.” – Lois Lowry
What do you think?
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